It’s honestly hard to believe how much Tomb Raider has grown alongside me—and so many of us—over the last three decades. When Lara Croft first appeared in her breakthrough video game, she wasn’t just a pixelated explorer; she became a symbol for adventure, intellect, and raw courage. I’ve lost count of how many hours I’ve spent dodging traps, deciphering clues, and joining Lara on her legendary expeditions. Whether through thrilling games, action-packed movies, or gripping novels, her saga has made an indelible mark on pop culture and on my own imagination. So, I am super excited to watch Prime Video’s Tomb Raider.
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Now, something truly incredible is happening: Prime Video is giving Lara Croft a new lease on life with a live-action series, and I can’t hide how excited I am. Sophie Turner—whose performances have always brought so much depth—is ready to redefine the iconic archaeologist for a whole new era. There’s a certain electric anticipation in knowing that a character who’s inspired me for years is coming back, and she’s in the hands of a talented team who really understands what makes Lara special.
This blog is my deep dive into everything fueling my excitement: the creators who are leading the charge, the casting choices that have fans buzzing, the possible direction of the story, and the big hopes riding on this ambitious adaptation. Whether like me you grew up trying to beat the hardest Tomb Raider levels, or you’re discovering Lara for the first time, there’s no doubt—the news of her TV debut is setting the entertainment world ablaze in 2025.
Tomb Raider’s Journey So Far
Created by Core Design and released by Eidos Interactive in 1996, Tomb Raider rapidly rose to popularity and established Lara Croft as one of gaming’s most recognizable protagonists. The series’ blend of exploration, mythology, and action was revolutionary, inspiring sequels spanning decades, two major Hollywood films starring Angelina Jolie, and a 2018 reboot with Alicia Vikander.
Beyond games and movies, Lara Croft has become a symbol of female empowerment, adventure, and the allure of mysteries lost to time. The franchise’s willingness to reinvent its heroine for new audiences is now culminating in Prime Video’s first-ever live-action television adaptation—a move that signals the streaming giant’s commitment to high-quality genre storytelling.
Prime Video Takes the Reins
Amazon MGM Studios and Crystal Dynamics announced the development of a live-action Tomb Raider series for Prime Video in early 2025, immediately stoking fan excitement and speculation. The show brings an impressive creative team:
- Phoebe Waller-Bridge (creator/writer, executive producer, co-showrunner): Known for her sharp wit and nuanced characters in “Fleabag” and “Killing Eve,” Waller-Bridge brings a fresh narrative voice to Lara Croft’s world.
- Chad Hodge (co-showrunner): The experienced producer will collaborate with Waller-Bridge, ensuring a dynamic and balanced creative process.
- Jonathan van Tulleken (director of the pilot): The BAFTA-nominated filmmaker is set to deliver a visually and emotionally compelling introduction to the series.
With Amazon’s resources and the franchise’s storied legacy, fans anticipate a production that combines high artistry with blockbuster spectacle.
Sophie Turner: Lara Croft Reimagined
Perhaps the most headline-grabbing announcement is the casting of Sophie Turner as Lara Croft. Turner, best known as Sansa Stark in “Game of Thrones” and for roles in “X-Men,” brings both dramatic gravitas and worldwide recognition to Tomb Raider’s heroine.
- Turner’s casting signals a shift toward greater character depth and emotional nuance for Lara Croft.
- The role follows in the footsteps of Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander, positioning Turner among a select class of actresses entrusted with bringing the character to life.
Turner’s background, combining action roles with complex, evolving characters, makes her a compelling choice for a modern, multifaceted Lara Croft. Industry insiders and fans alike are curious to see how Turner will navigate the expectations and challenges that come with stepping into such an iconic role.
Creative Vision: What Sets This Series Apart?
Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s involvement is likely to have a profound effect on the show’s style and substance. Waller-Bridge is renowned for her ability to craft strong female leads who subvert expectations and offer new perspectives on familiar genres. For Tomb Raider, her approach promises:
- Greater psychological depth: Beyond the familiar action-adventure formula, exploring Lara’s inner life, origins, and motivations.
- Smart, sharp dialogue: Waller-Bridge’s signature narrative wit, blending humor and emotional truth.
- New thematic ground: Potentially engaging with contemporary issues, global myths, and mysteries in more relevant ways.
Combining Waller-Bridge’s talents with Amazon’s production values suggests a show that could stand out from typical video game adaptations.
Production Timeline and Release Window
With the announcement and casting in September 2025, Prime Video revealed that filming will begin in January 2026 and is expected to continue through the year. If production stays on schedule, viewers can anticipate the premiere in 2027.
- Crystal Dynamics is consulting on the show, ensuring authenticity in representing Lara Croft’s world, and the property’s narrative fidelity.
- The series will be available exclusively on Prime Video, giving global audiences instant access upon release.
As streaming platforms increasingly vie for major action-adventure properties, Prime Video’s Tomb Raider is positioned as a cornerstone in its genre library.
How Will Tomb Raider Differ From Past Adaptations?
While Tomb Raider’s film adaptations offered spectacle and big-screen adventure, their critical and fan reception remained mixed. The Prime Video series aims to:
- Explore Lara Croft’s emotional journey as much as her physical adventures.
- Provide a serialized storytelling format, allowing for more robust world-building and character development.
- Introduce new supporting characters, villains, and mysteries tailored for television audiences.
The TV format allows more time to flesh out Lara’s relationships, rivalries, and personal evolution—potentially enriching the narrative beyond earlier adaptations’ limitations.
Fan Expectations and Cultural Impact
Few characters in gaming have inspired as much loyalty, debate, and creativity as Lara Croft. The new series faces both high expectations and opportunities:
- Long-time fans hope the series will honor the spirit of the games, featuring thrilling tomb exploration, historical intrigue, and puzzles.
- Newcomers seek accessibility—stories that open up Lara’s world without requiring exhaustive knowledge of prior lore.
- The casting of Sophie Turner, with international appeal, is expected to attract viewers from various demographics.
The announcement overshadowed Netflix’s animated Tomb Raider series, which is set to conclude with its second season in December 2025, consolidating Prime Video’s position as the premier destination for Lara Croft’s adventures.
Lara Croft’s Legacy: Why Tomb Raider Still Matters
Lara Croft isn’t just a pop culture icon; she’s a trailblazer for female protagonists in traditionally male-dominated genres. Her evolution—from scantily-clad video game character to a symbol of intelligence, independence, and resilience—reflects broader changes in both gaming and television.
The Prime Video adaptation comes at a time when audiences crave fresh takes on familiar stories, deeper psychological complexity, and action heroes who are as compelling for their self-discovery as their physical exploits.
The new series may not only entertain, but also expand conversations around gender, adventure, and the role of global franchises in contemporary media. While we are at the end, you might be thinking, what about the Tomb Raider Netflix Series? When the season 2 come? What’s the latest news? Don’t worry, we have covered everything in this article. Click Here.
What Can Viewers Expect?
While many specifics remain under wraps until filming begins and trailers are released, early reports suggest that fans can expect:
- Elaborate tombs, cryptic puzzles, and breathtaking locations—hallmarks of classic Tomb Raider stories.
- Intrigue, danger, and mythical mysteries set against richly realized settings.
- A Lara Croft who is vulnerable, smart, and resourceful—true to the games, yet adapted for modern sensibilities.
- Supporting characters and antagonists who will challenge Lara both physically and emotionally.
If successful, the series could pave the way for further seasons, spinoffs, and renewed interest in the Tomb Raider games themselves.
Conclusion: Awaiting Lara’s Next Journey
The announcement of Prime Video’s Tomb Raider series feels like a truly special moment—not just for the franchise, but for fans like me who have grown up inspired by Lara Croft’s fearless spirit. With Sophie Turner stepping into Lara’s legendary boots, and the amazing Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Chad Hodge guiding the creative vision, there’s a real sense of hope and excitement that this adaptation will finally honor Lara’s complexity and legacy in a way the fans deserve. Knowing that Amazon’s backing brings both passion and scale just adds to the anticipation.
As filming gears up early next year, I can’t help but feel a thrill imagining the fresh adventures ahead—rediscovering the mysteries, experiencing new stories, and watching Lara come alive in an entirely new way. For all of us who’ve been part of these adventures, from old fans to newcomers, this is more than just a show. It’s the continuation of a journey we’ve all been waiting for. So, let’s stay tuned and ready for what’s next—whether Lara is decoding ancient crypts or battling fierce foes, her story is far from over, and the next adventure is calling.